In a display of discontent, farmers in Punjab commenced protests outside the residences of BJP candidates and leaders across 16 locations on Tuesday. The demonstrations underscored mounting frustration among farmers, who confronted BJP candidates and leaders campaigning in villages, questioning the Modi government's policies, handling of farmers' protests, and alleged police actions during protests.
Reacting to the protests, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar issued a stern warning, cautioning the “farmers” and criticizing what he referred to as “self-styled” leaders of farmer unions. Jakhar condemned these leaders as extortionists, alleging collusion with the Bhagwant Mann-led government. “They need to introspect. People will turn against them. They are defaming their own community. These self-styled leaders need to mend their ways,” he said.
Addressing representatives of trade and industry in Ludhiana, Jakhar launched a scathing attack on the alleged disruptors of industrial operations, accusing them of causing massive losses and hindering Punjab’s economic activities.
“Punjab’s arteries are blocked. They are not the genuine farmers who are protesting. Those resorting to these undemocratic ways are self-styled leaders who have their axe to grind. The AAP government under Bhagwant Mann is fanning their protest by patronizing it. The government is culpable of bringing disrepute to the real farmers,” he said in the presence of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Jakhar further lamented the distress faced by Punjab's industries due to the ongoing protests, blaming the government for exacerbating tensions between farmers and traders. He accused the administration of perpetuating a divide between the two sectors, jeopardizing Punjab's economic stability.